Girl, You Belong!

Shaking Off Imposter Syndrome

Are you working on another degree, running to complete another certification, or taking another workshop to amplify your (already good enough) credentials when there are people doing exactly what you do or want to do without most of your creds? You may be struggling with imposter syndrome. It’s that feeling of not quite measuring up despite your qualifications or achievements. Or you may be yearning for a certain level of respect and believe that your education will compel people to respect you.

Imposter syndrome can make you believe you don’t deserve success or your position, despite evidence of your competence. For many women, it’s a phase of personal or professional development that passes as a phase as they gain more experience, but for BIPOC women (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), it can be a weight that is pesky and persistent. It’s a battle that goes beyond passing thoughts of self-doubt; there are cultural, social, and institutional barriers that can make feelings of inadequacy more intense.

BIPOC women in professional and academic settings, often find themselves questioning their value, struggling to overcome stereotypes, and combating a sense of “otherness.” The struggle is real and deeply rooted in racial and gender dynamics, causing these women to feel like they don’t belong, even when they’re undeniably qualified and capable.

Are you constantly feeling the pressure to prove yourself, especially in in predominantly white or male spaces? Well, I’ve been there and done that. As a woman of faith, I can share with you that you can learn to rest in your God-given identity and walk like a boss wherever you go. Here are four not so easy steps to embracing all of who you are and not giving a d*mn.

1.    Always ground yourself in prayer! Be consistent in prayer and don’t be afraid to ask God to help you see yourself as God see you. James 1:5, gives us an open invitation to seek God for wisdom and guidance.

2.    Affirm Your Identity in Christ. Create positive affirmations from scriptures that speak to you and affirm your worth. Write them on sticky notes and speak them daily. Do not underestimate the power of the mind-mouth connection. It works! Proverbs 18:21, let’s us know that life and death is in the power of the tongue.

3.    Get support. Find a mentor. Reach out to other women like you who can encourage you and share their journey and how they are overcoming or have overcome. Proverbs 15:22, let us know to seek wise counsel.

4.    Take Action. Do it, even if you are scared. Walk in like you own the room, knowing that God has called you to that space. Push past your doubt, even if you’re afraid. Soon you will be comfortable and confident. That will cause the atmosphere to shift. God will open doors and direct your path. (Proverb 3:5-6)

God has a distinct calling on each of our lives. As BIPOC women our voices, experiences, and perspectives are needed, not only in the workplace but in every space we occupy. When we can overcome imposter syndrome, we can fully embrace the unique purpose God has for us and be absolutely confident that we are equipped to fulfill it.

Overcoming imposter syndrome is a journey, but it can be done. Faith and focus will help you step out with confidence. Know you are beautifully and wonderfully made and equipped for everything you’ve been called to do. Embrace this truth – you are enough, baby! All by yourself. You are enough.

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